Vote for Stephanie Sorensen, Pasco Fire Rescue Volunteer

Pasco County Fire Rescue’s own volunteer Stephanie Sorensen competed in the national “Step Up and Stand Out” contest, which recognizes outstanding volunteer firefighters from across our nation. Stephanie is one of approximately 30 volunteers vying to be the nation’s outstanding volunteer firefighter. More than 45,000 votes were cast to select the five finalists from video nominations received across the country for those volunteers who represent the best of the fire service.

“Step Up and Stand Out” is a national campaign sponsored by Kidde, a leading manufacturer of residential fire safety products, in an effort to increase awareness of the ongoing need for volunteer firefighters. The contest launched nationwide on February 11, 2016, to recognize these valued volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their community.

Now it’s time to vote for the grand prize winner from the five finalists.

Visit www.Firehouse.com/VF to submit your vote through September 23, 2016 and follow #StepUpStandOut on social media.

The winner will receive a $1,000 training grant for their fire department and additional prizes – including a free trip for two to Nashville, Tennessee. All finalists will receive a prize pack consisting of 200 Kidde smoke alarms for their local fire department, a National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Prevention Week Kit, and more.

Most of America’s 30,000 fire departments (87 percent) are either fully or partially-staffed by volunteers. These men and women act as the first line of defense in an emergency, provide medical services, and protect more than 50 percent of Americans – particularly in rural communities. However, in recent years their numbers have steadily declined. Volunteers dedicate significant training hours to ensure they are prepared, often at their own expense.

“Volunteer firefighters play a critical role in keeping our communities safe, and it’s important to us that we do our part in recognizing their efforts and service,” said Chris Rovenstine, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Kidde. “I would like to encourage everyone to vote for the grand prize winner and help Kidde continue to raise awareness about fire safety.”

Vote for the Step Up and Stand Out grand prize winner and see Stephanie Sorensen’s video at the following link: http://www.woobox.com/woodoh